Mayor Wheeler has hired Robert King as his new senior advisor on public safety issues.

After 27 years in the Portland Police Bureau, Robert King retired in 2018 as Commander of North Precinct.

Over the course of his career, King worked with community members and law enforcement colleagues to create a space for diverse groups of people to navigate their differences and find ways to work together.

King worked on a variety of assignments throughout his career including serving as a patrol officer, SERT officer, detective, patrol supervisor, and as PPA President. In his career, he was promoted to Lieutenant, Captain and then retired as a Commander of North Precinct. After an eight-month-long retirement, King returned to public service as a safety officer for the Bureau of Development Services.

King is committed to and supportive of the Mayor’s goal of building trust between the community and the bureau.

“We are at a critical time when it comes to the role of public safety. As my administration continues to navigate how to evolve policing to be relevant to the changing needs of our community, I am pleased to have Robert King join the team. He brings many years of experience and insight that will be invaluable to my office. He also comes widely recommended from the community, having spent decades forging important relationships. Our police officers deserve the respect, attention, and resources they need now more than ever. I hope to continue building a strong relationship with the members of the Bureau and our community with the help and guidance of Robert King.” Mayor Ted Wheeler

“I am thankful to Mayor Wheeler for this opportunity to serve the police bureau and community. I respect, admire, and appreciate the work done by members of the Portland Police Bureau. I am deeply committed to continuing the work of building bridges as well as finding ways to heal hurting communities. I look forward to working collaboratively with members of the bureau and the public I serve.” Robert King

On a personal note, King is a proud husband and father to three children.

His first day will be Monday, April 8th.

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